I'm not a Banks fan by an means, but thought it was an interesting read. I personally think the Pats will be just fine, and may even benefit from bringing in some new blood and creativity. Pioli will undoubtedly be missed the most, but resiliency is our trademark and I'm sure the Pats will adjust. If only we could get someone to hire away Dean Pees too.

3) The Patriots still have the game's best player in Tom Brady. I know lots of people have found reasons to get panicky about No. 12 since that fateful day his knee buckled last September. (Come to think of it, how will Pioli introduce himself to Chiefs safety Bernard Pollard?) But I'm just not a member of the doomsday club. I really believe Brady's going to come back and be Brady again. If not immediately, then very, very soon. In plenty of time for the 2009 Patriots to be OK. . . .

And in some ways, the Patriots, remarkably enough, are even better off for Brady going down. With Matt Cassel developing into a quarterback worthy of being slapped with New England's franchise tag, the Patriots are in position to auction him off in trade if they so deem, likely bringing much needed help for the defensive secondary.